IKO Polymeric explains how to achieve sustainability when specifying single ply roofing. To achieve sustainability of a single ply roof covering, the specified material needs to tick so many boxes. The first question to ask is what the material is made of and can it be recycled at the end of its life? Some projects have special planning requirements to meet a certain BREEAM or other sustainability rating. Therefore, it is important that the specified single ply roofing membrane counts towards the BREEAM rating.

Some single ply membranes (when installed with the right roofing system elements) have a BREEAM rating of A+, such as IKO Polymeric’s Armourplan PVC membrane. Reduced carbon emissions also play an important role in a project where sustainability is a key element. Buying products made in the UK contributes towards lower carbon emissions due to the minimised transport requirements.

It’s worth noting that the formulation of single ply can vary enormously from one manufacturer to another, which affects the end result. Using cheaper or less plasticiser in PVC membrane for example, makes it harder to work with and less durable. A 1.8mm membrane may be more robust and not completely puncture when damaged but once the top layer is broken, the lower layers are then exposed to UV which in time will break down the membrane if the damage is not repaired.